The Department of Overseas Labor under the Vietnamese Ministry of Internal Affairs announced on April 8 new policies from the Japanese government regarding the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) program and the newly established Employment for Skill Development (ESD) program.
Under the updated SSW program, Japan has added three new sectors to the existing 16, bringing the total number of eligible industries to 19. The new additions include linen supply, logistics/warehousing, and resource circulation.
The 16 sectors already in operation include: nursing care (caregiving), building cleaning, industrial product manufacturing, construction, shipbuilding and ship machinery, automobile maintenance, aviation, hospitality, automobile transport, railways, agriculture, fisheries, food and beverage production, food services, forestry, and wood processing.
In addition to expanding the list, Japan will adjust and subdivide certain existing sectors. Starting from April 2027, industries such as automobile maintenance and food/beverage production will be split into more specific trade categories to more accurately meet the demands of the labor market.
Furthermore, the Japanese government has introduced the ESD program, which is set to launch in April 2027 with 17 approved sectors. This program is designed to provide diverse pathways and skill-building opportunities for foreign laborers, including those from Vietnam.
The 17 sectors under the ESD program include: nursing care, building cleaning management, construction, shipbuilding and marine equipment, automobile maintenance, hospitality (hotels), agriculture, fisheries and aquaculture, food services, wood industry, forestry, industrial product manufacturing, railways, food and beverage production, linen supply, logistics/warehousing, and resource circulation.
These policy updates are expected to significantly broaden employment opportunities and create a more structured environment for Vietnamese workers looking to build their careers in Japan.
